Kudos to the deputy commissioner (DC) of Dinajpur Shakil Ahmed who earlier this week paid a visit to stop the construction of a mosque on the endowment land of the historic Kantajew Temple in Kaharol upazila.
This is the sort of pro-active reaction we should expect from our leaders; the fact that he issued a warning that stricter legal measures will be taken if anybody tries to create trouble over the situation is also appreciated; there is no place for such divisive actions which are intended solely to stoke the flames of communal tensions.
It is indeed imperative for leaders across the country, at all levels, to adopt such a pro-active stance to nip any signs of communal tension in the bud before it escalates into something uncontrollable. The peace and harmony of our nation depend on collective commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
It is the duty thus of the relevant authorities and law enforcement agencies to ensure that minorities feel safe and secure in their homes and communities. Any form of bullying, coercion, or discrimination against minority groups must be met with swift and decisive action. Alongside, leaders must send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in our society.
In the long run, it is promoting tolerance and fostering interfaith dialogue that will heal our nation of the communal tensions that still exist. If we are to become a “Shonar Bangla,” then we must commit to building a society where diversity is celebrated, and every Bangladeshi can live with dignity and respect.
